Kaizer Chiefs’ Under-17s impressed in their first game at the Future Champions Gauteng International Tournament, despite losing 1-0 to Brazil’s Atlético Mineiro. The Amakhosi youngsters completely dominated the second half, creating several chances.

The Under-17s started the match slowly, with the Brazilians being the better side. They got a goal inside 15 minutes of play, due to an error by the Chiefs goalkeeper.

Thereafter, the Amakhosi youngsters got into their rhythm. Wiseman Meyiwa controlled the midfield, being ably partnered by Nkosingiphile Ngcobo.

Up-front, striker Sibongiseni Hlengwe and winger Nathi Nzama created problems for the Atlético defence.

Especially in the second half the Amakhosi youngsters were really pressing, creating several excellent opportunities to score. However, the Brazilian goalkeeper made some fabulous saves and he will surely be one to watch for the future.

Chiefs got a penalty during the latter stages of the game, but Meyiwa failed to put the ball past Atlético’s goalkeeper, who made a superb dive to his right, blocking the ball from reaching the back of the net.

“We started off slow,” Chiefs’ Under-17 coach Arthur Zwane admitted after the match, “however, as the game progressed we really got into it. They just played high balls forward, especially in the second half when we put them under pressure. Besides the goal, they never really created any real clear cut chances.”

The exciting young winger Nzama added about the match: “This was a great experience for us.”

Striker Hlengwe commented: “Atlético have strong big defenders. However, when we press them, they just kick the ball forward. We dominated the match and we are disappointed we didn’t get the points.”

Chiefs’ Under-17s will face Mexico’s Club Tijuana on Tuesday afternoon, 15 March, at the Nike Centre (Field 1), kick-off is at 14:30.